A thing of pride -gala-aimee-

[EMMALINE AUSTIN]

w e. c a n. d o. i t. e v e n. b e t t e r. w i t h
---------b r o k e n h e e l s

Emmaline bit her lip, feeling her cheeks fill with color as he told her not to think anything of it- of course she was going to think about it, since she'd just stepped on him, in front of all of the other influential people. He would probably hear about it later, since she was positive people were laughing. She looked up at him as he told her to hold on, and she blushed again as he pulled her closer, her chest pressing to his as he blushed momentarily. It took significantly longer for the color to fade back to normal on her own cheeks however, though she did give him a brief smile as he squeezed her hand. She followed his lead, wanting to think of something to say, but biting her lip when she came up with nothing.

'No, I much prefer to be unsociable and taciturn...'

Again, Emmaline squandered the the thoughts, focusing instead on Benson, doing her absolute best not to step on Benson's toes again. Much to her relief though, Benson was being very precise in his leading, saving them both from the embarrassment of another mishap. She looked up as he asked her to remember something, raising an eyebrow as he didn't actually look at her. She hesitated for a moment as he finished, but finally she sighed and nodded, "Alright, no apologies." That was going to be hard, but she'd certainly do her best.

She smiled up at him as he suddenly seemed to relax, loosening up and moving more fluidly. She followed carefully, trying to match to fluidity of his movements, looking up as he suggested they talk to keep her mind off of the dance, and she smiled with a sigh of relief as she nodded, "That would be fantastic. I think I'm trying too hard not to mess up that it's stressing me out." She blushed a little as she admitted it.

Finally, the song ended, and Emmaline relaxed more fully, curtsying gracefully as Benson bowed before following him gladly off of the dance floor. She nodded a little as he assured her that they could find a table, "It would be nice to sit down for a little while." She wasn't going to say anything, but her ankle was still kind of sore. It would be fine, if she stayed off of it for a few minutes. She followed him to a table then, sitting down carefully, crossing her legs and folding her hands neatly in her lap. She bit her lip then, looking over to Benson, teasing a little with a small smile, "Do you think there's any way to feign injury to get out of dancing with other people?"

'Oh, come now Emmaline, dancing is fun! It's why my sisters loved the balls so much... Especially when the officers come to town. Besides, you're with that man. He shouldn't like you... You're a lower class, a Gentleman's daughter, but no more. But he certainly seems to prefer you- you're lucky you're handsome. He sure is handsome himself. I'd certainly dance with him for the miserable half of Meryton.'

What was that?

tagged. Benson&&Chirp
count. uhm...?
clothes. See the picture. (: with these shoes.
comments. I'M SORRY THAT I AM SUCH A FREAKING SLACKER. Hope the post makes up for it though. :]
credit. pan @ caution2.0

[/size]

[GAVIN BENSON]

This world has lost its glory.
Lets start a brand new story. Now my love.

[/color][/b]

you think that I don't even mean
a single word I say

____________________________________________________[/center]

Benson sat himself down in the chair beside her and watched the party swirl about them with nervous anxiety. His eyes flashed at her in thought as if content to simply stare a moment. She was beautiful, stunning in every way and it frustrated him why he had such a feeling of connection when he had just met her. This was only their second meeting. This wasn't a movie, they were still complete strangers. Realizing he was staring Benson cleared his throat and glanced back to the people about them. ”You need to think less sometimes. Sometimes thinking too much clouds your thought. Prejudice is one of the hardest things to overcome after all.”

He glanced back to her with those warm brown eyes and flashed her a reassuring smile. He seemed far more at his ease now he was away from the watching eyes. Sure people were still glancing their way but much of the chatter seemed to turn elsewhere. Someone must have come in with a better spectacle, perhaps a politician with a tramp or some other scandal to speak on. He sighed and slumped just a bit his eyes closing a moment, ”No. No that doesn't work. I've tried it myself. They tell you to walk it off.” He opened his eyes again and straightened the ruff of his shirt trying to somehow make the style look anything but silly.

His eyes flashed back to her once more, 'She does have beautiful eyes doesn't she'

Benson flinched as the voice in his head didn't even seem to be his own. How odd, perhaps it was just nerves from the odd emotions he was feeling. Perhaps he should see a doctor. He might be overworking himself, making himself sick. He shook his head and shrugged, ”Well sufficed to say the attention is elsewhere for now. We will have to see if it stays that way. I think we will be safe sitting here for a while. You really did well out there. You said you liked to waltz when we spoke before right?” He completely omitted the fact she had mowed him down on that occasion.

How peculiar he did not think to speak on it. It was not in his nature to forgive such actions so quickly so what was special about this Emmaline.

'I find the exertion makes her cheeks flush which only does to enhance those beautiful eyes.' That odd voice whispered again.

He frowned and shook his head blinking a few times, ”So do you need a drink? Some wine perhaps. Neither of us has to drive so consider it almost mandatory to have at least a glass.”

_________________________________________
It's only words.
and words are all I have
To take your heart away

[/b]

(outfit here)

[EMMALINE AUSTIN]

w e. c a n. d o. i t. e v e n. b e t t e r. w i t h
---------b r o k e n h e e l s

Emmaline sighed a little as Benson told her she needed to think less, "That's true... But I find that if I think less, I'm far less prepared to make witty comments." She blushed then, realizing that she probably shouldn't have said that. Dropping her gaze to her hands in her lap, she cleared her throat a little, "Though I suppose those aren't particularly appropriate tonight, are they?" She gave an embarrassed smile, then looked around the room for a moment, scanning the faces idly, turning back to Benson after a moment.

She watched him for a moment, since he had his eyes closed, providing the perfect opportunity to study his features- his strong jaw, angular features, they all melded to the perfect picture of high class. Strong, fluid, and yet having the ability to seem gentle and calm. He was the epitome of Victorian high class, as well as today's. Suddenly, Emmaline felt incredibly inferior, as if someone had walked past, claiming she was not pretty enough to fit in here.

'Most people think you aren't handsome enough to be here. But Benson doesn't think so. Why, he's just like my Mr. Darcy....'

Emmaline blinked a little at that, again placing the smile on her features as Benson opened his eyes, speaking, though she sighed a little at his response, "Well, that's unfortunate. Because I'm sure that I'll step on someone else's toes, if they aren't as good a leader as you, and they may not be so gracious as to try and take the blame themselves." She shook her head a little, then smiled faintly as he commented that the attention seemed to have turned elsewhere. For the most part at least.

"Well, that's a relief. I don't do well with too much attention..." She shook her head a little, but gave no particular explanation. She got nervous when too much was expected of her, and those were the times when she would much rather withdraw to her small library of books, and hide among the pages. She nodded a little as she answered the second part, "It's one of my favorite dances. Thank you, for helping however. It's been so long since I've done the Waltz properly, I would have made a laughingstock of myself without your help." She bit her lip then, before adding, "I really do hope your foot is alright? I still feel bad for stepping on your foot...."

She shook her head a little then, silently scolding herself for a moment before she looked up to Benson. She blushed a little, "That would be lovely... Though... Is there any way it could be a white wine? I'm afraid I'd manage to spill it on my dress if it was a red wine...." She smiled a little in embarrassment, "Although red is fine...." She didn't want to seem like an ungrateful or snobby guest. She hesitated a moment, "Actually, I think I'm just going to step outside for a moment, get some air." She stood carefully, smoothing her dress as she made her way out to the balcony, taking a breath of the cold night air.

"Emmaline, what are you doing here? You don't belong here...." She leaned on the stone railing then, looking out over the water with a sigh. She really didn't belong in this world.


tagged. Benson&&Chirp
count. uhm...?
clothes. See the picture. (: with these shoes.
comments. I'M SORRY THAT I AM SUCH A FREAKING SLACKER. Hope the post makes up for it though. :]
credit. pan @ caution2.0

[GAVIN BENSON]

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[atrb=background,http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v259/Woltharnia/Benson-table-middle.jpg] Benson nodded and watched Emmaline excuse herself with complete confusion. His eyes flashed with uncertainty before he turned and headed for the refreshment table. She needed air he might as well give her a bit of space. He greeted several people he knew but for the most part kept himself on a bee line for the refreshment cart. Normally they paid people to wander about with this sort of thing but the crowd made it impossible to locate one. So he was forced to shove his way to the table and grab two glasses of white wine. He nodded in response his eyes flickering over the swirling gowns that came and went the gentlemen in their coats with the same amount of ruffle as his. It was hard not to be distracted by all the finery and yet there was something so familiar about this. There was a certain sense of daja vu that seemed to permeate the air and he couldn’t shake it. It felt as if all of this had somehow happened before. It was the silliest sensation, ”Here I was thinking you weren’t going to dance with anyone else or has that changed from the car?” He shot her an inquiring look making his best attempt at a joke. ”And either way most men here are far better leads then me. I am just a dabbler and have been known to be alright at a waltz. However I hardly get up to dance so I fear you will have more then me tonight Emmaline if you change your mind on the dancing regard. The way I see it these men would be lucky to have such a partner. MY foot hardly feels a thing. You can thank our friend the costume maker. The shoes are almost authentic and as such nearly made of stone.” He shrugged and leaned back into his chair to relax. White wine he could to he decided. Wine was a staple for these parties and he was sure to find something somewhere so he stood graciously to gather such things. He turned to head towards the balcony and paused as she excused herself and . What if she had been trying to get away from him? I mean that was a logical idea. He had only met her once and swung her instantly too far over her head. What if she was looking for a way to leave? Well he could surely do that for her. Besides who wouldn’t want to date a man like himself? He was rich, successful, good with animals and children what wasn’t to like? ’Your pride for one, I thought we had already learned this lesson.’ The voice in his head, which still didn’t seem to be his own, whispered. It was like a forgotten memory, an echo of something once strong. He shook his head deciding he was spending far too much time worrying and not enough time taking action on the problem at hand. He needed to go find Emmaline outside. Perhaps they could take a stroll in the garden. He took a tighter grip on each wine glass and stepped his way over to the door to the balcony. More than once he was grabbed into a conversation. Each time his eyes darted to the door and back with looks of clear discomfort. He has some where to be and trivial conversation was on his mind. It didn’t help that most of these side conversations were asking about the woman herself. He would bow his head and excuse himself and with swift steps whisk himself off. Finally he made progress and reached the door. Quietly he opened it and closed it behind himself staring at the few people who stood on the balcony besides Emmaline but soon they faded into nothing. His eyes caught the woman he came with and his body froze. He stood and stared a moment. She looked so perfect in the low lantern glow, the hostess had set up special gas lanterns all along the balcony and well into the garden. There were a few people down there but he didn’t have eyes for them right now. ’Quite the catch. Do not let her station get the better of you. See her as a woman and a person not as what she is.’ Again Benson shook his head frowning at the voice. He must be stressed about something but these figment voices had to stop. ”Emmaline.” He said as he reached her side and held up the glass to her, ”Shall we take a stroll in the garden. It seems a bit crowded inside after all.”

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(outfit here)

[EMMALINE AUSTIN]

w e. c a n. d o. i t. e v e n. b e t t e r. w i t h
---------b r o k e n h e e l s

Emmaline laughed a little, "Oh, no. That has not changed. But if I absolutely must dance, I do believe I will likely injure someone before the night is over." She shook her head then, looking over as Benson explained that the other men here would probably be better leads than him, though she couldn't think it true. 'He's simply trying to put you at ease, being a gentleman. After all, he would be in trouble if he wasn't. Do not let yourself think that it is because he actually cares for you.'

Emmaline blinked a little at that, shaking her head in confusion, trying to figure out why the voice in her head didn't seem to be her own. It spoke with an accent similar to her own, but the tonality was different. She shrugged it off though and instead returned her attention to Benson, shaking her head as she spoke, "Lucky would hardly be the word I would use. And I'll have to remember to thank her for that later... Otherwise I fear you would have had a very sore foot indeed." She watched as Benson stood to go find the wine, and as he did, she excused herself to the balcony for some air.

While she stood there, leaning on the railing, looking out over the water and the garden, the voice returned.

'Now, you know that after tonight he will pretend you do not exist, correct?'

Emmaline sighed a little at that, having to admit to herself and the strange voice that it was true. She had accompanied him, but it was most likely a matter of convenience. After all, she owed him.

'Yes, and you are a woman below his station. He is used to beautiful women from all over, I'm sure- what makes you so handsome as to tempt him?'

Emmaline muttered to herself, leaning over to rest her elbows on the stone railing, her hands dangling gently over the edge as she sighed, "I really don't know.... I don't belong here." She then pretended not to notice as someone took a picture, most likely marveling at the fact that she was alone and not with Benson. She sighed again, realizing that now Benson would have to deal with that too.

At first, she didn't notice when Benson stepped out, and she tilted her head back, looking up at the stars, wondering what on earth she was doing there. She didn't belong there, among all of the rich elites. All the women spoke of their fancy outings, of places they had seen, things they had done. Emmaline was a college student, going to school to be a writer. She didn't belong there. At all.

The voice spoke up again, 'Here he comes- don't fool yourself. Keep your wits about you.'

Emmaline turned then as Benson said her name, and she smiled a bit as she took the glass gently, "Thank you, Benson." She took a sip of the wine then, leaning back on the railing, holding the glass over the edge as she leaned on her elbows again. Another sip was taken before she answered, nodding, "That would be nice. It was a bit stuffy inside..."
tagged. Benson&&Chirp
count. uhm...?
clothes. See the picture. (: with these shoes.
comments. I'M SORRY THAT I AM SUCH A FREAKING SLACKER. Hope the post makes up for it though. :]
credit. pan @ caution2.0

[JANELLE AUSTIN]

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[atrb=background,http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i12/enfamous505/white_background.jpg] Janelle didn’t really know what was going on. Working at Pristine Paws had its advantages, of course. The customers were usually rich woman with purebred dogs. They often requested Janelle for she had always had a way with their pets; they always looked spectacular once she was finished and were the farthest from frightened the entire time. These rich women liked to thank her with things other than a few extra dollars in tips. They gave her tickets to the Opera or a Broadway show. They sent her to spas where the masseuses seemed to know who she was. They took her shopping for beautiful dresses. It often threw her for a loop. All she was doing was taking care of their canines; she didn’t need dresses or massages or front-row seats. Evidently, that wasn’t the case for Mrs. Belknap. Mrs. Belknap absolutely adored Janelle. She sang praise to all of her socialite friends, insisting they go to Pristine Paws for any animal grooming [which wasn’t true; it’s not like they groomed birds]. Mrs. Belknap had sent Janelle to three spas, two high-end stores, and four Broadways shows. It was dizzying, the way this woman doted on her. As if all of this weren’t enough, Mrs. Belknap had invited Janelle to an upcoming event that was to be held at the docks, on a yacht. It was a fundraiser of sorts and, though Janelle had declared she could not attend, before she could help it, a wad of bills was shoved into her hands. Mrs. Belknap left with promises of visiting later and Janelle was left to nibble on her lower lip, wondering what in the world had just happened. Mrs. Belknap had given her one thousand dollars. Janelle was positive this was a mistake. Mrs. Belknap called later that day and told Janelle where she was to go to buy a dress and to let her know if she needed more money. Janelle was mortified but went to the boutique anyway. The dresses were incredible and she was in shorts and a tank top. The saleswoman sneered at first until Janelle explained her situation. It was a flurry of colors, fabrics, shoes, jewelry, and suggestions. They seemed to know what they were doing so Janelle just listened to them, trying on dresses and matching jewelry and heels. They chattered amongst themselves, gushing over how they loved galas for they always were able to help with the most darling of costumes. Janelle was uncomfortable to say the least. The car had dropped her off here five minutes ago and she still had yet to move. She could hear the guests from here, laughing and talking. There was the tinkering of glasses, the lull of music, the rhythm of waves and it all was rather overwhelming. What was she doing here? It took a few more moments before she could move; she didn’t want to let Mrs. Belknap down, after all. She hoped to make it in alright; Mrs. Belknap had not given her an invitation or anything. Still, she made it in and smiled genially at a passing couple. Perhaps she looked like she fit in; a white dress with the torso glittering in jewels and a shimmering band wrapping around her body beneath her breasts. Her earrings were silver and dangling, her necklace a similar sort. Her hair was curled, the ringlets gathering at her collarbone. Her bangs were clipped back; it all looked very elegant and she was grateful that Mrs. Belknap had also sent her to a beauty salon. Janelle heaved a sigh and ventured further in when Mrs. Belknap appeared out of nowhere. She immediately began talking up a storm, asking how the shopping went, telling Janelle she looked lovely, inquiring what she thought of the event and all Janelle could do was nod and smile. It wasn’t for another fifteen minutes before she was allowed to go and “mingle.” She opted to visit the refreshments table where she took a glass and sipped. Goodness, even the drink tasted fancy. outfit; minus the wrist thing & her hair is as it is in the banner.

******FOOTER PICTURE GOES HERE*****

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[wjc]

William wasn’t sure exactly why he had decided to step out of his cocoon and flex his wings. He liked the solitude of his room, yet Benson, William’s boss and good friend, thought it would be healthy for William to expand his horizons. The Gala was not what William would have picked, but Gavin practically begged him to go. Hell! William needed some social interaction since his last twelve day work-then-sleep schedule. William checked his body in the full length mirror, “Still lookin’ good.” He winked at himself and proceeded to continue dressing up. He found the outfit Gavin prepared for him quite horrendous, but it was ‘required.’

William was still on the fence about actually going. Gavin would be pissed, but William would probably regret going. He had this pit in his stomach that screamed, ‘Stay Away!’ He slid on the tacky and quite restricting deep blue velvet waist jacket. Grimacing at the hideous outfit, William ran his hand through his hair and turned on heel to fetch his keys and wallet. Routinely he went to slide his wallet into his back pocket, only to hear the slap of leather on hard wood flooring. “Yep. I am calling sick.” William dialed Gavin’s number when his cat ran full speed from under his bed and clawed at his ankle. He jumped about four feet into the air, dropped his phone (which shattered into pieces), and ended up falling on his ass…hard.

Rubbing his left butt cheek tenderly, William proceeded to put his phone together and slid his wallet into one of the inner pockets of his waist jacket. He grimacing as he left his room and scouted for Jamie, his cat. “Jamie.” He attempted a whistle. The sound fell flat of expectations, but the little black and gray Tabby came trotting to his master. Wiliam grabbed the nap of Jamie’s neck and threw Jamie into his room on his bed as he slid Jamie’s food and water bowl into his room. Slamming the door, he fixed his hair and proceeded to leave his apartment while checking his watch. “Damn. Late.” Sarcasm was laid on thick.

Hearing the purr of his 2009 Honda Accord was the only thing that made William legitimately smile. He always enjoyed his toys before the people around him. Honestly, his objects couldn’t hate, envy, disrespect, and curse him. His material possessions were not judgmental, nor rude about his antisocial status. He could just enjoy the silence and solitude when it is only him and his possessions. Honestly, if he didn’t HAVE to leave his apartment, he would just stay locked away forever. His mind began to wander on fairytales.

Fairytales were something that William enjoyed as child because he’d envision himself to be the knight in shining armor, but now he thinks about the Damsels in Distress. He envies the fact that they are locked away from the world, yet they seem so sad. To be away from all the negativity of the world is something that William does on a daily basis, but he is never given the opportunity like the princesses.

His car slowed as he entered the line for valet. He got out and headed around to the large boat and the center of the party. He moaned under his breath when he caught sight of the first few party goers whom were just as ridiculously dressed as he. William smiled politely and shook hands with people that knew his face because of Gavin, but honestly, he was headed straight for the refreshment table. He needed something to take his mind off the mass group of overly paid and dressed rich folk, who didn’t actually give a hot-cent about anyone, but themselves. Grabbing a glass of wine, William was shoved by some drunken male with jet black hair. He felt his back hit against another human’s body, but he hadn’t remembered anyone being there. “I am terribly sorry.” He said as he turned to face the female. Her face was soft and sweet with lush blond hair and the most intriguing blue eyes. “Did I cause you harm? Should I retrieve the man so he can rightfully apologize?” William’s voice was smooth and seductive, yet sort of stand-off-ish.

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tagged here |starring!

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notes here |notes![/color]
here |outfit![/color]
number |words![/color]
THEO MADE THIS! RAWR!|credit![/color][/right]

[GAVIN BENSON]

This world has lost its glory.
Lets start a brand new story. Now my love.

[/color][/b]

you think that I don't even mean
a single word I say

____________________________________________________[/center]

Benson watched Emmaline's reaction and he tried his best to read her. He just couldn't figure it out. She was so different from the women in the circles he traveled in. It was a nice change. It was odd for the business mogul not to understand someone. He was paid to understand how the inner workings of the average mind worked. That is how their product “sold” on the internet, and yet Emmaline? There was something so familiar and yet so strange about the woman. It was like starring at a puzzle that was only half done. You could only sort of tell what the picture was.

He scowled at his own stupidity of keeping so quiet again. Well he had offered a walk about the garden. He waved a hand towards the open area and headed for the stone staircase. He clasped his hands behind his back as he took the steps slowly. The gesture was for courtesy as his companion was in heels. Now what was he supposed to talk about? This was why he never brought dates. Benson didn't have the best personal skills and now he was unsure where to take the conversation. He cleared his throat nervously and let his eyes wander the tall hedges. Down little alleys outside of the lanterns flickering light he could see the vague shapes of people stealing away, vanish into the growing darkness to enjoy each other. He frowned.

It all seemed so improper and wild. Like they were off to hide in the forest so mommy and daddy wouldn't see. Only this time it was press and blackmail instead of hide and seek. His father had always criticized him for being old fashioned. He wasn't one to take risks if it wasn't business involved. He preferred his personal life to be neat, orderly, and lacking chaos.

Yet...

Again his eyes drifted to Emmaline and he forced an anxious smile. How did she inspire such feelings when they had only just met. It was like being caught in the center of a tempest. Everything around them fell to a dull roar, nothing mattered when she started speaking. This was like being a boy with his first crush all over again. It was foolish. He was going to get hurt. This was all going so fast, and he wanted it all.

'Talk to her already. No wonder you can never land a girl your worse then me.' The voice rang out stronger, as if it was almost snapping at him. Annoyance dripped from the consciousness that was edging further into his mind. The sound made him start out of his brooding self repose and he blinked a few times as he tried to come back to reality to do as his psychosis told him.

”So I feel I must apologies. I guess I should have invited you to dinner. You look like if given the opportunity to you might bolt... After all this I would be surprised to see you again after tonight. Well if I were in your shoes I think I would be running. This lifestyle is a bit of a mess. Its a lot of bored rich folk trying to find something to do.” He offered a lopsided smile. With a shrug he turned his warm brown eyes off into the plants again as he strolled slowly along the paved path. His scowl deepened as he realized how true his words might be.

He felt like a fool. He was dressed in a frilly shirt, trying to impress a woman he hardly knew. Yet he didn't want her to walk away and be gone after tonight. He frowned to himself as he fell back into broody silence his brows knitting together as he wondered how on earth he might salvage the evening. He really had no conversation starters. He should have told William they would travel together. William had a way with women and could have helped with conversation.

On the same thought Benson felt a flare of jealousy at the idea of William sweet talking Emmaline. He frowned again trying to figure out where to go next. Again he wound up dry. He cleared his throat again uncomfortably. ”My good friend William Cates will be here later. I would like you to meet him. If your up to the idea of venturing back inside at some point.”

_________________________________________
It's only words.
and words are all I have
To take your heart away

[/b]

(outfit here)

[EMMALINE AUSTIN]

w e. c a n. d o. i t. e v e n. b e t t e r. w i t h
---------b r o k e n h e e l s

Emmaline looked over at Benson as he motioned toward the garden, giving a slight nod as she straightened up, stepping back from the railing as she took a sip of her wine. She followed Benson over to the staircase, descending beside him, grateful that he seemed to be going slow for her benefit. She, being a klutz as she was, didn't want to fall down the stairs by going too fast. She would somehow manage to sprain her ankle again if she wasn't careful, and that would just ruin the night.

Once at the bottom, on the more safe flat ground, Emmaline turned her attention to Benson, watching him. He was quiet, pensive, and it made her wonder what he was thinking. She couldn't quite figure it out, and it intrigued her. The writer in her came up with scenario after scenario of possible trains of thought. He could be thinking about ways to tell her goodbye. He could be thinking about questions to ask. He could be thinking about a menagerie of different things.

'Well don't just stand there. Say something. He'll think you unintelligent, or ungracious.'

She looked around at the hedges, the flowers, the lanterns that filled the garden, a smile playing at the edge of her lips. She spotted a particular flower, a hydrangea not far away, and she drifted toward it, trailing her fingers gently along the leaves, smelling the blue flowers gently with eyes closed, "These were always my favorite... These and daisies."

At the sound of Benson's voice, she looked up, straightening up as she smiled, pulling her hand back, and placing it behind her back, folding it in her other hand, "Oh, it really isn't a big deal. I just... Don't particularly fit in here, but I'm not running anywhere..." She paused, smirking before pulling up the hem of her skirt a bit and holding out her high heeled foot, "Not in these, anyways." She laughed a little at her own joke, sipping at her wine then to silence herself. No need to embarrass herself with an obnoxious laugh or anything of that sort.

As Benson started to stroll along the path again, Emmaline followed, grateful for the distraction of the changing scenery. She looked up as Benson mentioned another man, William Cates. She shrugged a little, sipping her wine, "I don't mind going back inside..." Really, she would rather not, but ceremony called for an eventual return to the main event, and Emmaline had no intention of straying from that ceremony.

tagged. Benson&&Chirp
count. uhm...?
clothes. See the picture. (: with these shoes.
comments. I'M SORRY THAT I AM SUCH A FREAKING SLACKER. Hope the post makes up for it though. :]
credit. pan @ caution2.0

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[JANELLE AUSTIN]

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[atrb=background,http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i12/enfamous505/white_background.jpg] The drink was good enough but she’d be finished with that soon enough and it wasn’t as if she could spend the entire night at the refreshment table. That was embarrassing. But who could she converse with? Janelle knew nobody and Mrs. Belknap had disappeared in the crowd. Perhaps she could just leave… Janelle had already spoken with the woman who invited her. Surely, she wouldn’t be missed? And yet… Janelle had a few ideas in mind of how she would spend her time at this Gala but being bumped into was not one of them. Thank goodness they’d run into her from behind so her drink spilt away from her dress. She would have been so upset to spill her drink on this dress; it’d cost so much and it was her first night wearing it. Janelle set the glass down and looked to the table for something to dry her hands on. The voice apologizing startled her; she hadn’t expected a sorry from them. “No, no. It’s fine. I sho—” His eyes were quite distracting. A strange, but captivating, combination of hazel and blue. He was very handsome and, had it not been for everyone else in them, she would’ve found his outfit odd. But he made it work. Janelle smiled shyly and shook her head. “I should have been paying more attention.” Janelle glanced passed to where she caught sight of a dark-haired man stumbling away. Janelle could hear the aloof tone beneath his otherwise alluring voice. It offended her ever so slightly. Perhaps he should rightfully apologize. Spotting a napkin [even this looked fancy, matching the color scheme], and dried her hands. She held one hand out and smiled. It was best to be polite. “Janelle Austin. Pleasure,” she gave a small curtsy. Is that what they did in those times? Hopefully. She’d hate to look like an idiot. Janelle’s thoughts wandered. She wondered why she was here. It’s not like she fit in amongst these rich people. Oh, she could just imagine how her mother and younger sisters would love to be here. They would be overwhelmed with it, surely. So much gossip, handsome men, and dancing. Yes, her mother would have an absolute darling time here. Janelle would much rather be at home right now, or even horseback riding. Yet, here she was, introducing herself to a man who probably had better people to talk to. outfit; minus the wrist thing & her hair is as it is in the banner.

******FOOTER PICTURE GOES HERE*****

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[wjc]

William’s casual and calm demeanor didn’t falter when Janelle spoke because William wasn’t effected by girl’s especially the cute girly types. He nodded slightly when she took the blame, anything was better than William faking an apology. She watched the woman’s search for a napkin, when she finally turned around and held out her hand. She told him her name and did a slight curtsey. Yep, definitely cute and girly. “Well, Janelle,” William started as he took her hand and brought it to his lips, “I am William Cates.” He finished before lightly kissing the tips of her fingers. His eyes were caught with her’s and he gave her a smile before releasing her hand and grabbing a glass of wine.

“Janelle, you don’t seemed too pleased with the party. Does it disappoint you?” William’s question held a certain air of true curiosity, yet he honestly couldn’t care because he just wanted to leave, or maybe he could leave..WITH Janelle. “Anything I can do to make it better?” He stressed the ‘I’ in his question. Sex? Lots of Sex? William was up for that, Janelle probably wasn’t but she’d change her mind after William worked his magic. One thing that William had over Gavin was his Charm, it was a curse and a blessing. He could charm the clothes off any female, but sometimes ones just took their clothes off without him actually doing anything.

Taking a sip of his wine, William made a face at the taste. Bleh, what the fuck kind of wine was that? Boxed wine? Stupid High-classed ass fucks who didn’t notice the difference in wines. They were probably munching down on dog biscuits and cat nip with cheese, yet they’d probably enjoy it if you stuck a ‘classy’ name to it. William’s frustration grew more as he watched them socialize, he could tell the liars, sluts, gold-diggers, pedos, drug addicts, and alcoholics. Each of them held their own story just from their body language, hand gestures, smiles, and trailing eyes. William shook his head in disbelief and leaned on the table behind him and let his eyes fall back on Janelle. At least she was pretty.

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tagged here |starring!

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notes here |notes![/color]
here |outfit![/color]
number |words![/color]
THEO MADE THIS! RAWR!|credit![/color][/right]

[GAVIN BENSON]

This world has lost its glory.
Lets start a brand new story. Now my love.

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you think that I don't even mean
a single word I say

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Benson watched her flit to the flowers and a small smile danced on his lips. She looked so happy for a moment. He much preferred her like this then the sullen thing he saw at the party. He might have to avoid gala's if he wanted to stay around this woman. Honestly the thought didn't bother him. It was more for other people then himself that he came to these silly things. It was a curse of the rich. You were expected to appear, donate all your money, and chat with others of your level. It just cut into the little time he spent at home.

He nodded at her talk of favorite flowers, ”If I have to have flowers I like roses. I am not much for flowers myself though.” Come to think of it he might only have one plant in his entire house. He had some grass outside in his penthouse but not much. He could take his dogs to work after all, when your ceo you can do whatever you like really. America was a good country to be eccentric in.

”I think your right about that. You aren't the most graceful woman about I will say that.” He flashed a small smile and looked down the path in thought. Well they didn't have to go looking for Cates just yet. That could wait after all. The thought of Cates and Emmaline still made him nervous on some deep level. William just had a charm women couldn't deny when he turned his aim on them. Compared to William, Benson looked like quite the uptight prick. People were not his strong suit and that was why he had hired Cates in the first place. Will made it so he didn't have to deal with people as much. They got along pretty well and William was one of the few people Benson would call a friend.

He shrugged slightly trying to shake off his inadequacy issues and glanced out to the water, ”How about this. How about we go down to the docks then back. Then we can go inside. Gives us a bit more of a breather. Its a little crowded in there.” He turned down one of the side paths and looked too the water again, ”I do love living near the ocean. I'm from the west coast and I couldn't live far from the sea.”

_________________________________________
It's only words.
and words are all I have
To take your heart away

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(outfit here)

[EMMALINE AUSTIN]

w e. c a n. d o. i t. e v e n. b e t t e r. w i t h
---------b r o k e n h e e l s

Emmaline nodded a little, "Well, that's to be expected- after all, isn't it the guy who is supposed to give the flowers? Not receive them? Roses are great though." She smiled, releasing the flowers gently as she turned to face Benson, blushing as he agreed that running in the heels wouldn't be a wise idea, especially given what he knew of her track record. Really, she was a good runner, a track runner. Obviously she had to be, if she was able to catch up to her dog and take out Benson in the park.

Starting slowly down the path, Emmaline paused every now and again to trace a finger along a leaf or a petal as she walked, watching Benson carefully. She still couldn't tell what he was thinking, and in a way it frustrated her, and yet it intrigued her at the same time, offering a puzzle, a riddle to figure out.

She followed his gaze to the water, then looked back at him as he spoke, nodding a little, admitting quietly, "That would be good. I didn't think I was quite ready to go back inside anyways." Giving a small smile, she nodded, "Yeah, the ocean is great..." She paused, sighing a little as she slipped into her writer's state of mind, "It's so... Unique from day to day, always changing, completely unpredictable. Stormy one minute and smooth and calm as glass the next...."

Blushing, Emmaline looked up at Benson, taking the last sip of her wine before she crossed her arms over her chest, trying her best to preserve her body heat as she apologized, following him as he turned down a side path, "Sorry. It's the writer in me- I get carried away sometimes..." She looked over at Benson, "So this William guy- what's he like? Just so I don't accidentally say something I shouldn't...."

tagged. Benson&&Chirp
count. uhm...?
clothes. See the picture. (: with these shoes.
comments. I'M SORRY THAT I AM SUCH A FREAKING SLACKER. Hope the post makes up for it though. :]
credit. pan @ caution2.0

[JANELLE AUSTIN]

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[atrb=background,http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i12/enfamous505/white_background.jpg] Janelle should’ve expected his next move. It was rather typical at events such as these to be so polite. But she did not like having her fingertips kissed, much less by a man who obviously did not want to spend his time talking to her. Perhaps it was that she felt out of place here, but Janelle could tell she wasn’t acting herself. Normally, she’d have given this man, this William Cates, a better chance. She would’ve smiled more and conversed sweetly and complimented and all the other nice things she did often. Unfortunately, the atmosphere of the rich was getting to her. Though they all came off as so generous, she knew that they were elite. They wouldn’t go out of their way to help somebody that was obviously not in their class. Their arrogance was affecting her and it did not please her. “Pleasure,” she answered, pulling her hand back once it was free. Clasping her hands together behind her back, Janelle smiled pleasantly and maintained eye contact. Yes, she was certainly well-mannered. Her eyebrows arched slightly, surprised. He could tell, could he? Janelle shrugged delicately, unclasping her hands and folding her arms over her chest. “It’s not that I’m displeased,” she answered slowly, not wanting to hurt any feelings. “I’m sure it could be a lovely time if I…” Janelle paused. Did she want to tell him she clearly did not belong here? Surely, the conversation would go no where if he knew she was not rich as he was. She did not need money to be happy. Janelle was quite pleased with her weekly canine clients, her younger sister, and her classes at Barrie. Thinking of her sister made Janelle realize how much she’d love if Emmaline were here now. If only; she’d probably be able to handle this all much more smoothly. “If I knew more people,” Janelle finally finished, a sheepish smile gracing her lips. “Anything you could do?” she repeated, not having missed his emphasis on the pronoun. Again, her eyebrows rose. Who did he think he was? She could certainly have a good time at a party without a rude male. Janelle was realizing just how judgmental she was being. She still blamed it on the atmosphere but decided to behave from there on out. She relaxed, her posture still straight but less rigid. “We could dance?” she suggested, glancing to the dance floor and then back to him. outfit; minus the wrist thing & her hair is as it is in the banner.

******FOOTER PICTURE GOES HERE*****

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[wjc]

William's brow quirked at Janelle's sudden abruptness when she practically yanked her hand from his kiss. Well, that was definitely unexpected, especially girls that look like her usually fell for the 'romantic' routine. William's strategy would have to do a bit of adjusting, but not before he asked her a question. But, that could wait.

He listened as she answered his question. "Well, you know me. That's plenty enough." William stated with a slight smile. He was serious about that, because she must not have noticed the points and stares they had received since their little run in. William was Gavin's best friend and right-hand man, so it was customary for most everyone to meet William. "Actually, who brought you along as any arm piece. Mr. Owens?" William gestured to some short, plump male laughing a bit too loudly. "Or Mr. Johnson?" William pointed to a man who wore a stern stare and remained far away from the dancing.

He smiled his signature smile when she asked him to dance. "It would please me greatly." He stated as took her hand in his and led them to the dancefloor. Of course the music was that of the time period, so it was custom to do the dance along with the music, but luckily it was a slow, tune. Something meant for a couples dance. Even better.

William turned to Janelle and pulled her close to his body. His hand took to her waist, while his other gripped her hand delicately. He allowed their bodies to sway with the music, "Janelle. Don't take this the wrong way, but you don't seem like the one to come to such gatherings. High-Class people seem to make you...." He thought for a moment, "Stiff."